When I think about the essence of what I desire, it comes down to one thing: inner peace. It's this deep-seated tranquility that I want, not just a fleeting moment of calm but a sustained sense of serenity that anchors me through the chaos of life—responsibilities, shifting relationships, and expectations. It all can get overwhelming, but if I could secure that peace, it'd be easier to navigate the storm.
Living in the "now" has become more than just a cliché for me; it's a lifeline. So often, we're tormented by the 'what-ifs' of the future and the 'should-haves' of the past. But if life is essentially a tapestry of present moments stitched together, then finding peace in the 'now' is like stitching each thread carefully, mindfully. It's about making decisions in the present that you won't regret later and ruminate endlessly on later—decisions that align with a certain standard of excellence and morality.
Why is having a process so important? Because a good process is like a blueprint for peace. If I have a clear-cut process that I respect, one that aligns with my principles and reflects a high standard of excellence and morality, then the outcomes are secondary. Outcomes are often out of our control, but actions and attitudes are within our grasp. If I can stand by my actions, free of guilt, then I have found my peace.
For me, it comes down to this: trust the process. Not a process designed by someone else or one that society dictates, but a process that you create for yourself. A process that, if followed, you know you would respect yourself for. When you can design a day-to-day life process that you can stand behind, you'll find that peace comes a lot more naturally. And if you're doing your best in the present, you're already at peace.